Nanning City,
China

Kitakyushu,
Japan

Bitung City, North Sulawesi, Indonesia

Manado City, North Sulawesi, Indonesia

Jinjiang,
China

Bitung City, North Sulawesi, Indonesia

The joint sisterhood partnership with Davao and Bitung aims to bolster the creation of inter-port routes within Davao, General Santos and Bitung to augment trading destinations. President Joko Jokowi of Indonesia and Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte initiated this agreement. 

Moreover, the establishment of the “Roll on, Roll off” ships helped in the smooth-sailing delivery of cars, trucks, and goods. These RoRo ships are currently available within the cities of Bitung and Davao, but will soon be made available within several ASEAN trading routes.  

Aside from these initiatives, both sister cities intend to ramp up the development of science and technology as well as tourism.

President Joko Widodo of Indonesia and President Rodrigo Duterte initiated the launching of the RoRo trading route.

Areas of Cooperation

Inter-port Cities Development

Trade and Economic Development

Education, Culture, Youth and Sports

Environmental and Urban Management

Transportation and Tourism

Human Resources, Sciences and Technology

Socio-Economic Data

Tourism Facts

Relying on the fishing industry as a source of livelihood, Bitung City was a vital port destination for Indonesia because of its strategic location. Diving is one of the best tourist activities in Bitung because of its rich and healthy marine ecosystem. Aside from the fishing industry that flourished, agriculture is also rich in Bitung so that tourists can experience a touch of pure nature. 

Popular tourist attractions include the Lembeh Strait and Statue of Jesus the Redeemer. Known as the muck diving capital of the world, the Lembeh Strait of Bitung City is home to a variety of marine species including seahorses, snake eels, octopus, and other exotic animals. Drawing inspiration from Christ the Redeemer of Brazil, this 35 meter statue of Jesus the Redeemer in Bitung City is another rising tourist attraction in Indonesia as it has a better angle for taking photographs.

Tourist Destination

Lembeh Strait

Statue of Jesus the Redeemer

Kitakyushu,
Japan

Manado City, North Sulawesi, Indonesia